Enteral feeding device and method of using the same

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to an enteral syringe including a barrel with a first inlet, a first outlet positioned opposite the first inlet, a first side opening formed in a side of the barrel and a plunger movably mounted in the barrel where the barrel can be filled and refilled with enteral fluid without removing the plunger from the barrel.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims benefit of and priority to ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/907,669 filed Sep. 29, 2019 entitledENTERAL FEEDING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME, the entire contentof which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND Field of the Disclosure

The present invention relates generally to the field of enteralnutrition, and more particularly to an improved enteral syringe.

Related Art

An enteral syringe is known in the art as an apparatus to administermedication, enteral fluids or other fluids to a patient via an enteralfeeding tube, as well as to vent air from the patient's stomach and tocheck residuals of enteral fluid previously administered to the patient.When clinicians perform these tasks, particularly the administration ofmedications and/or enteral fluids by gravity using a presently availableenteral syringe, the plunger is removed from the barrel first to allowaccess to the barrel cavity of the enteral syringe such that the plungerand the syringe barrel are separated. Removal of the plunger from thebarrel may be necessary multiple times as the syringe is filled andrefilled. Repeated removal and reinsertion of the plunger into thebarrel is required when viscous enteral fluid is being administered andrequires additional pushing of the plunger to expel enteral fluid out ofthe barrel and into the enteral tubing. The enteral syringe plunger mayalso be removed and separated from the barrel during the initialunclamping of the enteral tube to allow air to escape from the patient'sstomach. During this process, the plunger may be separated from thebarrel and may be misplaced, for example, on the patient's bed, bedsidetable, or other places where it may be contaminated. In such cases, thecontaminated plunger may be reused and could harm the patient,especially the vulnerable ones such as the neonates, the elderly and theimmunocompromised. Moreover, in conventional enteral syringes, theplunger, if separated from the enteral syringe may be misplaced and/orlost such that replacement is necessary which may add significant costsfor the health care institution.

Another problem that clinicians encounter using conventional enteralsyringes is clogging of the enteral tube, for example, with fragments ofmedications that are bigger than the inner diameter of the enteral tube.When this happens, clinicians must take extra time and effort to unclogthe enteral tube or may have to completely remove and replace theenteral tube causing additional discomfort or harm to the patient andincreasing costs to the institution based on the additional time andeffort required of the medical staff as well as additional financialcosts attributed to enteral tube replacement.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an enteral syringe thatallows for providing enteral fluids and/or medications to a patient thatavoids these and other problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an enteral syringethat includes a barrel with a first inlet provided on a proximal end, afirst outlet provided on a distal end and a second inlet assembly, wherethe second inlet assembly allows access to an internal cavity of thebarrel for filling and refilling of the barrel without removing aplunger.

An enteral syringe in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure includes a barrel having a cylindrical shape and including acentral cavity; the barrel including: a first output opening positionedon a distal end thereof; a side opening formed in a side of the barreland spaced from the first output opening; and a plunger mounted in thefirst barrel and movable from a retracted position where a distal end ofthe plunger is positioned in the barrel and above the first side openingto a compressed position wherein the distal end of the plunger ispositioned between the first side opening and the first output opening.

In embodiments, the barrel includes a first inlet opening provided in aproximal end of the barrel wherein a proximal end of the plunger extendsthrough the first inlet opening.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a first external structuresurrounding the side opening and extending outward from the side of thebarrel.

In embodiments, the first external structure tapers from a top portionto a bottom portion.

In embodiments, the first external structure is funnel shaped.

In embodiments, the first external structure is tube shaped.

In embodiments, the first external structure includes a puncturestructure including: a base; a pointed protrusion extending upward fromthe base; and an opening formed in the base and in fluid communicationwith the side opening.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a filter element positionedin the side opening.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a first filter elementpositioned in a flow path extending between the first externalstructure, the side opening and the central cavity.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a lid attached to a top ofthe first external structure and movable between a first position inwhich the side opening is exposed and a second position in which thefirst side opening is covered.

In embodiments, the lid includes a hydrophobic filter.

In embodiments, the proximal end of the plunger t remains outside of thebarrel and includes a flat surface configured for contact with a user'sfinger to aid the user in manipulating the plunger.

In embodiments, the flat surface includes a hanger opening configured toreceive a protrusion to support the enteral syringe.

In embodiments, the plunger includes a distal end that moves within thebarrel and includes a seal element.

In embodiments, the seal element engages an inner wall of the centralcavity such that the plunger stays in place in the barrel when no forceis applied by a user to the plunger.

In embodiments, the seal element is movable along the inner wall of thecentral cavity when the user applies pressure to the plunger.

In embodiments, the seal element is made of an elastomeric material.

In embodiments, the barrel is made of polypropylene.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a seal ring extending froman inner surface of an inner wall of the central cavity to mark theretracted position of the plunger.

In embodiments, the distal end of the barrel tapers in an areasurrounding the first outlet.

In embodiments, the distal end of the syringe surrounding the firstoutlet is structured for connection with an enteral tube.

An enteral syringe in accordance with another embodiment of the presentdisclosure includes a barrel having a cylindrical shape and including acentral cavity; the barrel including: a first output opening positionedon a distal end thereof; a side opening formed in a side of the barreland spaced from the first output opening; and a bulb structure mountedon a proximal end of the barrel and in fluid communication with thecentral cavity such that compression of the bulb structure increasespressure in the central cavity to push fluid in the central cavitytoward the first outlet.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a lid configured toselectively cover the side opening during operation of the bulbstructure.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a first external structuresurrounding the side opening and extending outward from the side of thebarrel.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe includes a lid attached to a top ofthe first external structure and movable between a first position inwhich the side opening is exposed and a second position in which thefirst side opening is covered.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described withreferences to the accompanying figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of an enteral syringe with the plungerremoved from the barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an enteral syringe with the plungerinserted in the barrel in accordance with another embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the enteral syringe of FIG. 1Aincluding a plunger with a round shaft in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1C illustrates a front view of the enteral syringe of FIG. 1Aincluding a plunger with a partially round shaft in accordance withanother embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is illustrates a front view of the syringe of FIG. 1 with theplunger provided in a retracted (filling) position in the barrel;

FIG. 2A illustrates a cross section of the enteral syringe of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of the syringe of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of the enteral syringe of FIG.1A;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an enteral syringe also showinga hanging element in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed perspective view of a secondary inletassembly of the enteral syringed of FIG. 1 showing a side opening in thebarrel with a filter in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a syringe including a closablesecondary inlet assembly in accordance with another embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an enteral syringe including a bulbstructure mounted on a proximal end of the barrel thereof in accordancewith an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B is a more detailed view of the second inlet assembly of theenteral syringe of FIG. 6A with a lid in an open position in accordancewith an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6C is a side view of an enteral syringe including a bulb structuremounted on the proximal end of the barrel thereof in accordance withanother embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates a side perspective view of the syringe of FIG. 6 withthe lid of the secondary inlet assembly in an open position showing ahydrophobic filter on the lid in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a detailed side perspective view of the syringe ofFIG. 6 showing the secondary inlet assembly without a filter elementbetween the barrel cavity and secondary inlet assembly in accordancewith an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a detailed side perspective view of the syringe ofFIG. 6 including a filter between the barrel cavity and the secondaryinlet assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates a detailed view of a puncture element provided in asecondary inlet assembly of the syringe of FIG. 6 in accordance with anembodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom perspective view the syringe of FIG. 6including the puncture element of FIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT

In embodiments, an enteral syringe 200 (see FIG. 1, for example) allowsa user to keep a barrel 222 and plunger 220 together during filling orrefilling of the enteral syringe. In embodiments, the enteral syringe200 may have a secondary inlet assembly 230, 330 (see FIGS. 1 and 6, forexample) separate from the first inlet 228 that receives the plunger 220and permits access to the syringe barrel cavity 244 of the barrel 222for filling, refilling or venting the syringe barrel and allows the userto perform said tasks without the need to completely remove the plunger220 from the syringe barrel 222. In embodiments, it is desirable toprovide an enteral syringe 200 that provides filtering of the enteralmixture/solution/medication to help prevent clogging of the enteral tubeto reduce the risk of discomfort to the patient and minimize additionalcosts to institutions. In embodiments, it would also be desirable tohave a syringe device 200 that is safe and easy for clinicians to use.In embodiments, it would also be desirable to have a method ofadministering the enteral fluid or medication that minimizes the stepstaken by the clinician to administer the enteral fluids and medication.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe 200 allows for a method ofadministering enteral fluid or medication using the syringe that iseffective and avoids the aforementioned deficiencies by allowingoperation while keeping the plunger 220 and barrel 222 together duringfilling and refilling the cavity with enteral fluid and/or medicationand while venting air from the user's stomach. In embodiments, theenteral syringe 200 may also allow for filtering enteral mixtures orsolutions prior to their entering a patient's enteral tube to reduce thelikelihood of clogging.

In embodiments, an enteral syringe 200 may include a novel secondaryinlet assembly 230, 330. In embodiments, the enteral syringe 200 mayinclude a barrel 222 with a primary inlet 228, a secondary inletassembly 230, 330 and a plunger 220 wherein the secondary inlet assemblyincludes a filter 248 (see FIGS. 5 and 9, for example).

In embodiments, the barrel 222 may be intended and configured forcontaining the enteral nutrients and/or medications to be supplied tothe patient. In embodiments, the barrel 222 may be a cylindrical tubewhich is generally hollow to form a cavity 244 with open ends. Inembodiments, the distal opening is an outlet 232 and is configured toconnect to an open end of an enteral tube. In embodiments, the proximalopening 228 on the other end of the barrel 222 may be a first, orprimary, inlet that is configured to receive or otherwise accommodatethe plunger 220. In embodiments, finger pads 250 a, 250 b (see FIG. 4,for example) may be provided adjacent to the primary (first) inlet 228and extend outward on opposite sides of the first inlet. In embodiments,a second inlet assembly 230, 330 may be provided on the side of thebarrel 222 perpendicular to the finger pads 250 a, 250 b. Inembodiments, the second inlet assembly 230, 330 may include afunnel-like exterior structure 230 a (see FIG. 1, for example). Inembodiments, the second inlet assembly 230 may include a side opening236 (see FIGS. 2, 3 and 8, for example) formed in the side of the barrel222 that is in fluid communication with the barrel cavity 244. Inembodiments, the secondary inlet assembly 230 allows alternate access tothe cavity 244 such that a user has the ability to position a distalsealing end 226 (see FIG. 3, for example) of the plunger 220 in thefirst inlet 228 of the barrel 222 during filling, refilling or ventingsuch that the plunger need not be removed from the barrel duringoperation. In embodiments, a filter 248 may be provided in or upstreamfrom the side opening 236 in the barrel 222 to prevent the passing ofmixtures or particles that may cause clogging of the enteral tube. Inembodiments, different filters may be used depending on the applicationor on the size of the enteral tube used with the syringe 200. Inembodiments, at least two different filter sizes may be used taking intoconsideration enteral tube size used for adults and enteral tube sizeused for children. In embodiments, filter size refers to spaces in thefilter that allow material to pass through. In embodiments additionalfilter sizes may be used based on application.

In embodiments, the plunger 220 may include a proximal, retracted end224 that remains outside of the barrel 222 and includes a flat surface224 a to aid in manipulating the plunger 220 into and out of the barrel.In embodiments, the flat surface 224 a provide a surface to which a usermay apply pressure to the plunger 220, for example, using a finger orotherwise. In embodiments, an X-shaped shaft 234 (see FIGS. 1-3, forexample) may extend between the retracted end 224 and the sealing end226 (see FIGS. 2-3, for example) of the plunger 220. In embodiments, theshaft 234 may be other shapes. In embodiments, the distal sealing end226 includes a seal member 226 a configured to form a seal with theinterior wall surface of the barrel cavity 244 in the barrel 222.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe 200 may also include a lid 252 (seeFIGS. 6-7, for example) selectively covering the secondary (second)inlet assembly 330, for example. In embodiments, the lid 252 may beremovable. In embodiments, the lid 252 may be nonremovable. Inembodiments, the lid 252 may be movable between an open position (seeFIG. 7, for example) in which the side opening 236 is exposed and aclosed position (see FIG. 6, for example) in which the side opening 236is covered and concealed. In embodiments, the lid 252 may include ahydrophobic filter 254 (see FIG. 6, for example). In embodiments, thesecond inlet assembly 330 may not include or be connected to a filter.In embodiments, the second inlet assembly may be coupled or uncoupledfrom the barrel 222. In embodiments, the second inlet assembly 230, 330may include a side opening 236 formed in any desired side of the barrel222. In embodiments, the retracted end 224 of the plunger 220 mayinclude a hanger element 246 (see FIG. 4, for example) configured toallow the syringe 200 to hang from a hook or protrusion when not in use.In embodiments, the location of the secondary inlet assembly 230, 330may be at any desired position on the side if the barrel 222. Inembodiments, the second inlet assembly 230, 330 may include a tube-likeexterior structure 330 a (see FIGS. 6-7, for example). In embodiments,the exterior structure 330 a may be removably coupled to the barrel 222.

In embodiments, the enteral syringe 200 of the present disclosure isunique when compared to conventional syringes and provides at least thefollowing advantages: (1) a secondary inlet assembly 230, 330 thatallows for filling, refilling or venting without removal of the plungerfrom the barrel and (2) filtering of the enteral liquid that goes intothe syringe barrel 222 via the second inlet assembly 230, 330 andeventually into the enteral tubing. In embodiments, a method ofproviding enteral fluid using the enteral syringe 200 of the presentdisclosure is unique in that it: (1) allows the user to keep the barrel222 and plunger 220 together during filling, refilling or venting; (2)improves efficiency by eliminating steps of removing the plunger fromthe syringe barrel every time there is a need to access the enteralsyringe barrel; and (3) helps reduce the risk of plunger contaminationsince the plunger remains in the barrel.

The following is a more detailed and specific description made withreference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings and specificdescriptions of the drawings, as well as any specific or alternativeembodiments discussed, are intended to be read in conjunction with theentirety of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary illustration of an embodiment of anenteral syringe 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure including a plunger 220 that is illustrated as beingseparated from the barrel 222. In embodiments, the plunger 220 mayinclude a proximal retracted end 224 that remains outside of the barrel222 and includes a thumb surface 224 a provided to aid in manipulationof the plunger 220 within the barrel 222. In embodiments, the retractedend 224 may be connected via a shaft 234 to the sealing end. The thumbsurface 224 a may be a flat surface to which the user may apply pressureto the plunger 220, which is mounted in the barrel 222 and remains inthe barrel during operation of the syringe 200. In embodiments, thedistal sealing end 226 may include an elastomeric seal 226 a sized andconfigured to tightly engage the inner wall of the barrel cavity 244. Inembodiments, the seal 226 a frictionally engages the inner wall of thecavity 244 of the barrel 222 so that the plunger 220 remains in aparticular position within the syringe cavity 244 without usermanipulation. In embodiments, this feature is particularly beneficialwhen positioning the sealing end 226 of the plunger 220 in the firstinlet 228 during filling/refilling and/or venting to keep the plunger inplace. In embodiments, the plunger 220 is movable from a retractedposition (see FIGS. 2-3, for example) where the sealing end 226 ismounted in the first inlet 228 to a compressed position where thesealing end 226 slides downward in the cavity 244 to expel the enteralfluid out of the outlet 232, which may be connected to the enteral tube(not shown). FIGS. 1A, 2A and 3A illustrate an exemplary plunger 220′ ina partially compressed position with the sealing end 226 positionedbelow the side opening 236.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary illustration of an embodiment of anenteral syringe 200 including a plunger 220 that is illustrated asseparated from the barrel 222, however, such separation is not necessaryduring operation of the syringe 200. In embodiments, the plunger 220 mayinclude the retracted end 224 with the thumb surface 224 a provided toaid in manipulation of the plunger 220 within the barrel 222. Inembodiments, the retracted end 224 may be connected via an X-shapedshaft 234 to the sealing end 226. In embodiments, the shaft 234 may beany other suitable shape. In embodiments, the sealing end 226 mayinclude an elastomeric seal 226 a sized and configured to tightly engagethe inner wall of the barrel cavity 244. In embodiments, the seal 226 africtionally engages the inner wall of the barrel cavity 244 so that theplunger 220 remains in a particular position within the syringe cavity244 without user manipulation. That is, in embodiments, the plunger 220will remain in position with respect to the barrel 222 unless and untilforce is applied by the user. In embodiments, this feature isparticularly beneficial when positioning the sealing end 226 of theplunger 220 in the first inlet 228 during filling/refilling and/orventing such that the plunger stays connected and in place whilefilling, refilling and/or venting takes place.

In embodiments, the body of the syringe (barrel) 222 may be acylindrical tube that is generally hollow and elongated including aninternal barrel cavity 244. In embodiments, the barrel 222 is open onboth ends. In embodiments, the primary (first) inlet 228 is provided ona proximal end of the barrel 222, and an outlet 232 is provided on thedistal end of the barrel. In embodiments, a second inlet assembly 230may be provided spaced from the primary (first) inlet 228. Inembodiments, the second inlet assembly 230 may include a funnel-likeexterior structure 230 a and a side opening 236 formed in the side ofthe barrel 222 and in fluid communication with the barrel cavity 244. Inthe retracted position, the sealing end 226 of the plunger 220 ispositioned above the side opening 236 and rests in the mouth of primaryinlet 228 of the barrel 222, while access to the cavity 244 is providedvia the side opening 236 to allow for filling, refilling and or ventingvia the cavity 244 without the need to remove the plunger 220 from thebarrel 222. In embodiments, a filter 248 may be disposed in the sideopening 236 of the barrel 222 to help prevent large particles fromentering the barrel cavity 244 and passing through the outlet 232 intothe enteral tube (not shown) where they may cause clogging. Inembodiments, the distal opening (first outlet) 232 may be configured toconnect to an EnFit® compatible outlet which is known in the art or anyother suitable connection to an enteral tube or other tube.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of the enteral syringe 200 showing the sealingend 226 of the plunger 220 engaged in the primary inlet 228 of thebarrel 222 in a retracted position during filling or refilling of thecavity 244 and/or during venting of air from the stomach.

FIG. 3 is a cross section of the enteral syringe 200 of FIG. 2illustrating the position of the sealing end 226 of the plunger 220 inthe primary inlet 228 of the barrel 222 with the arrow 240 showing flowof enteral fluid from the secondary inlet assembly 230 into the barrelcavity 244 through the side opening 236 of the barrel 222 during fillingor refilling of the syringe. As can be seen in FIG. 3, with the sealingend 226 of the plunger 220 in the retracted position, the user can ventair from the patient's stomach via the enteral tube through the cavity244 and the side opening 236 and fill or refill the cavity 244 withenteral fluid by pouring the fluid into the secondary inlet assembly 230where the fluid will pass from the secondary inlet assembly 230 throughthe side opening 236 and into the barrel cavity 244 as shown by thearrow 240. In embodiments, the enteral syringe 200 avoids the need forcomplete separation of the plunger 220 and the barrel 222 since thesyringe may be filled and refilled and stomach air may be vented withoutremoving the plunger 220. In embodiments, a circular ring 242 with aninner diameter slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the barrel isprovided to help the user determine the position of the sealing head 226a relative to the side opening 236 of the barrel 222. In embodiments,the circular ring 242 may be positioned closer to the first inlet 228,if desired (see FIGS. 1A, 2A and 3A, for example).

FIGS. 1A, 2A and 3A illustrate an enteral syringe 200′ that includes aplunger 220′ with a gripping ring 224 a′ provided on the retracted end224 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Inembodiments, the gripping ring 224 a′ may be configured and sized toreceive a thumb, or a finger of a user to allow for application ofpressure either downward, toward the outlet 232, or upward, away fromthe outlet, as desired. In embodiments, the barrel 222′ may include anexternal flange 242 a that extends around outer surface of the barrel.In embodiments, the external flange 242 a provides a gripping edge forthe user. In embodiments, the enteral syringe 200′ may be operated by auser using one hand and the gripping ring 224 a′ and external flange 242a provide secure gripping points to allow the user to more easilymanipulate the plunger 220′, particularly when moving the plungerupward, away from the outlet 232. Otherwise, the enteral syringe 200 isconfigured and structured in much the same manner as the syringe 200.

In embodiments, the syringe 200′ may include a plunger 220″ with acircular shaft 234 a provided between the retracted end 224 and thesealing end 226 as can be seen in FIG. 1B, for example. In embodiments,a plunger 220′″ may include a partially circular shaft 234 b between theretracted end 224 and the sealing end 226 as can be seen in FIG. 1C. Inembodiments, the circular shaft 234 a or the partially circular shaft234 b may prevent the flow of liquid through the opening 236 when theplunger 220′ is in a compressed or partially compressed position suchthat the sealing end 226 is positioned below the opening 236. Whileillustrated in conjunction with the syringe 200′, it is noted that theshaft 236 in the enteral syringe 200 may also be modified in accordancewith the shafts 236 a or 236 b, if desired.

FIG. 4 is perspective view of the enteral syringe 200 showing the thumbsurface 224 a with a hole 246 formed therethrough to provide a hangingimplement. In embodiment, the hole 246 may be provided as a hangingelement and is configured to receive a peg or hook that supports thesyringe 200. Extending outwards on both sides of the primary inlet 228are two finger pads 250 a, 250 b. On one side, perpendicular to thefinger pads 250 a, 250 b, attached to the barrel 222 is a secondaryinlet assembly 230 including a funnel-like external structure 230 a. Thesecondary inlet assembly 230 includes the external structure 230 a whichhas a funnel like configuration where a cavity of the funnel like shapeis in fluid communication with the barrel cavity 244 via the sideopening 236.

FIG. 5 is a close-up perspective view of the syringe 200 with plunger222 engaged on the primary inlet 228. Also shown is the filter member248 in the barrel opening 236 between the secondary inlet cavity and thebarrel cavity 244.

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the enteral syringe 200 showing onlythe barrel 222 with a secondary inlet assembly 330 in a tubular shapeconfiguration. Also shown is a lid 252 covering the secondary inletassembly 330. In the center of the lid 252 is a hydrophobic filter 254to allow air, but not fluid to escape from the stomach when used duringventing. In embodiments, the outlet end 232 may have a taperedconfiguration.

FIG. 7 shows the secondary inlet assembly 330 with the lid 252 in anopen position allowing access to the interior of the assembly 330 aswell as the side opening 236.

FIG. 8 illustrates a front perspective view of the syringe 200 of FIG. 7from the side including the side opening 236.

FIG. 9 illustrates the syringe 200 of FIG. 8 including filter member 248mounted in the side opening 236 of the secondary inlet assembly 330. Inembodiments, the filter element 248 may be provided upstream of theopening 236 to prevent larger particles from passing through the openingand entering the cavity 244 and ultimately out the outlet 232 into theenteral tube.

In use, the enteral syringe 200, 200′ may be used for administeringenteral fluids to an enteral tube by gravity. In embodiments, theenteral fluids may be administered using pressure applied to the plunger220 to move it to the compressed position as well. In embodiments,enteral fluids that are thick or colloidal are more likely to requirepressure applied by the plunger 220 to push the fluid out of the outlet232. In embodiments, the sealing end 226 of the plunger 220 ispositioned in the primary inlet 228 of the barrel 222 in retractedposition to allow for venting of air from the stomach through the outlet232, the barrel cavity 244 and the side opening 236. In embodiments, thefirst outlet 232 may be connected to the enteral tube (not shown) toallow venting of air from the patient's stomach since the plunger 220 ispositioned above the side opening 236 to allow air to pass through thecavity 244 and the side opening 236. In embodiments, the plunger 220which is previously inserted in the barrel 222, may also be retracted,that is moved from a compressed position to the retracted position orpartially toward the retracted position, to aspirate gastric contentsfrom the patient's stomach into the cavity 244, during a residual check,for example. In embodiments, fluids that are drawn into the cavity 244from the user's body may be drawn toward the side opening 236 anddrained from the syringe 200, for example during lavage. In embodiments,such drawing of the residual may be performed to confirm properplacement of the enteral tube and/or to check for enteral fluid residualin the patient's stomach. In embodiments, residual checks may be used todetermine how much fluid has remained in the user's stomach. Inembodiments, a high amount of residual fluid may indicate that the fluidis not being emptied from the stomach into the intestines which may be asign that tube feeding should be limited or stopped altogether toprevent gastric distention and/or aspiration which may be caused byfluid buildup in the patient's stomach that back up into the lungs. Inembodiments, after checking the residual enteral fluid, the residualfluid may be pushed back into the stomach by applying pressure to theplunger and moving it into the compressed position. After venting andchecking of residuals, in embodiments, the plunger 220 may be retractedso that the sealing end 226 is engaged on the primary inlet 228 of thebarrel 222 above the side opening 236 to allow access to the cavity 244without completely separating the plunger 220 and barrel 222 asindicated in FIGS. 2 & 3, for example. In embodiments, the syringe 200may be briefly disconnected from the enteral tube prior to retraction toallow air to enter the cavity 244 to stop the flow of fluid back intothe cavity 244. In embodiments, using the secondary inlet assembly 230,330, the barrel cavity 244 may be filled, or refilled, with enteralfluid that drains into the enteral tube (feeding tube). In embodiments,the volume of enteral fluid to be provided may exceed that of the barrelcavity 244 such that refilling of the cavity may be necessary tocomplete treatment of the patient. In embodiments, refilling is morelikely to be needed when the enteral fluid has a high viscosity suchthat extra force is needed to move it through the outlet requiring theplunger 220 to be compressed into the barrel 222, thereby blocking theside opening 236 and necessitating the plunger to be retracted to theretracted position to regain access to the barrel cavity 244 forrefilling without completely separating the barrel and plunger. Inembodiments, however, refilling may not be necessary during gravityenteral administration of less viscous fluid which may not requirecompression of the plunger 220 since fluid continuously flows andempties freely into the enteral tube without the need for the plunger tobe compressed leaving the side opening 236 open for filling on acontinuous basis if desired. In embodiments, filling and refilling maybe repeated seamlessly until the desired amount of enteral fluid isgiven to the patient. In embodiments, after the desired amount ofenteral fluid is provided to the patient, the enteral tube may beflushed with water provided via the syringe 200 without the need toremove and reinsert the plunger 220 in the barrel 222 which savessubstantial time. Following delivery of the enteral fluid and flushing,the syringe 200 may be disconnected from the enteral tube and theenteral tube may be closed and the enteral syringe 200 cleaned perinstitution policy or other standards or regulations.

In embodiments, the secondary inlet assembly 330 may include a punctureelement 330 b mounted in the external structure 330 a as can be seen inFIGS. 10 and 11, for example. In embodiments, puncture element 330 bincludes a pointed protrusion 302 extending upward from a base 304 withan opening 306 formed in the base. In embodiments, enteral medicine maybe provided in pre-packaged sealed cups that are typically sealed with aflexible foil cap that may be peeled back to allow the contents to beremoved. These foil caps may be difficult to pull back, especially forclinicians wearing gloves. In embodiments, the external structure 330 amay be configured to accommodate such a sealed cup C such that theflexible foil cap may be punctured by the pointed protrusion 302. Inembodiments, the user may then twist the cup C to widen the opening andallow the contents to flow out through the opening 306 and the sideopening 236 into the cavity 244.

In embodiments, an enteral syringe 2000 (see FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C) mayinclude a bulb structure 2020 mounted on a proximal end of a barrel 2022including a central cavity 2044. The barrel 2022 may include finger pads2050 a, 2050 b. In embodiments, the bulb structure 2020 may be made of aflexible material. In embodiments, the bulb structure 2020 issubstantially hollow and the hollow portion is in fluid communicationwith the cavity 2044 such that compression of the bulb structure 2020deforms collapses the hollow area to force air into the central cavity2044 and toward the outlet 2032. In embodiments, the force of the airentering the central cavity 2044 drives enteral fluid, or other fluid inthe central cavity 2044 toward the first outlet opening 2032 provided atthe distal end of the barrel 2022.

In embodiments, a side opening 2036 is formed in a side wall of thebarrel 2022 and an external structure 2030 a may be provided around theside opening 2036 as part of an inlet assembly 2030. In embodiments, theexternal structure 2030 a extends from the exterior of the side wall. Asindicated in FIG. 6A, the external structure 2030 a has a tube shape. Inembodiments, a lid 2052 may be provided on a top of the externalstructure 2030 a to cover or seal the opening 2036 when desired as canbe seen in FIG. 6A. This lid 2052 may be opened, as indicated in FIG. 6Bto expose or open the opening 2036. In general, the lid 2052 should beclosed when the bulb structure 2020 is manipulated by the user to applypressure to the fluid in the cavity 2044. In embodiments, the bulbstructure 2020 may also be used to draw fluid into the cavity 2044 froman enteral tube, for example. In such a case, the bulb structure 2020may be depressed while the lid 2052 is open which allows air to escapevia the opening 2036. Thereafter, the lid 2052 may be closed and thebulb structure 2020 released such that it can return to its originalshape. As it expands to its original shape, suction is provided to drawfluid or air into the cavity 2044 via the outlet opening 2032 since theside opening 2036 is covered. In embodiments, a filter such as filter248 may be provided in the side opening 2036 to prevent clogging of theenteral tube or outlet 2032.

In operation, the enteral syringe 2000 may be used to provide enteralfluid to an enteral tube by gravity in which case the lid 2052 willgenerally remain open to allow filing and refilling of the cavity 2044.If additional force is desirable to move material out of the outlet2032, for example, when a viscous enteral fluid is used, lid 2052 may beclosed and the bulb structure 2020 pressed and deformed by a user toforce air from the bulb structure into the barrel 2044, and thus, applyforce in the direction of the outlet 2032. In embodiments, pressure maybe applied to the bulb structure 2020 to move it down further into thebarrel 2022 such that a sidewall 2020 a covers the opening 2036 suchthat further deformation of the bulb structure will force air into thecavity 2044 and toward the outlet 2032 as indicated in FIG. 6C. Inembodiments where the bulb structure 2020 is movable into the barrel2044 to cover the opening 2036, the lid 2052 may not be necessary.

As noted above, if suction is desired, the bulb structure 2020 may bedepressed while the lid 2052 is in the open position to force air outthrough the opening 2036. Thereafter, the lid 2052 may be closed to sealthe opening 2036 and the bulb structure 2020 may be released to allowthe bulb structure 2020 to return to its original position and providesuction into the cavity 2044 through the outlet 2032.

In embodiments where the bulb structure 2020 is movable into the barrel2022 and suction is desired, the bulb structure may be compressedwithout moving it down such that the sidewall 2020 a does not cover theopening 2036 and air escapes the barrel 2022. Thereafter, the bulbstructure may be moved down to cover the opening 2036 and the bulbstructure released so that it returns to its prior shape to suck airinto the barrel 2044 through the opening 2032.

In embodiments, the components of the enteral syringe 200, 200′, 2000discussed herein may be formed from a variety of materials as desired bya user. In example embodiments, the enteral syringe 200, 200′, 2000 maybe made of, or include, plastics, other polymers, glass, metals, metalalloys, resins, or any other known and suitable materials. Inembodiments, the syringe body or barrel 222 may be formed frompolypropylene, and the plunger 220 may be formed from the same. Inembodiments, the seal 226 a may be formed from an elastomeric material.In embodiments, color additives may be added to provide protection fromUV light. In embodiments, colorants may be added to the syringe 200,200′, 2000 as desired, for example, to identify certainproperties/characteristics (i.e. administration path) or contents. Inembodiments, the enteral syringe 200, 200′, 2000 may include externalmarkings 238 (see FIG. 2, for example) to indicate volume capacity andremaining content levels. In embodiments the syringe 200, 200′, 2000 mayinclude additional inlets. In embodiments, each of the additional inletsmay include a filter, if desired, such as the filter 248 discussedabove. In embodiments, the additional inlets may be coupled anduncoupled from the barrel 222. In embodiments, the secondary inletassembly 230, 330 may also be provided at multiple points.

In embodiments, the syringe may be manufactured using injection moldingor other suitable manufacturing techniques. In embodiments, the enteralsyringe 200, 200′, 2000 may also be used in other applications such asveterinary, automotive and other industries. The syringe 200, 200′, 2000may also be used for other applications within the medical field. Inembodiments, the syringe 200, 200′ may be used for bladder irrigation,for example.

The above description is given by way of example, and not limitation.Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art could devisevariations that are within the scope and spirit of the inventiondisclosed herein, including various ways of fabricating the barrel,plunger or other components. Further, the various features of theembodiments disclosed herein can be used alone, or in varyingcombinations with each other and are not intended to be limited to thespecific combination described herein. Thus, the scope of the claims isnot to be limited by the illustrated embodiments.

Now that embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed in detail, various modifications and improvements thereon canbecome readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, theexemplary embodiments of the present invention, as set forth above, areintended to be illustrative, not limiting. The spirit and scope of thepresent invention is to be construed broadly.

What is claimed is:
 1. A syringe comprising: a barrel having acylindrical shape and including a central cavity; the barrel comprising:a first output opening positioned on a distal end thereof; a sideopening formed in a side of the barrel and spaced from the first outputopening; and a plunger mounted in the first barrel and movable from aretracted position where a distal end of the plunger is positioned inthe barrel and above the first side opening to a compressed positionwherein the distal end of the plunger is positioned between the firstside opening and the first output opening.
 2. The syringe of claim 1,further comprising a first inlet opening provided in a proximal end ofthe barrel wherein a proximal end of the plunger extends through thefirst inlet opening.
 3. The enteral syringe of claim 1 furthercomprising a first external structure surrounding the first side openingand extending outward from a side of the barrel.
 4. The enteral syringeof claim 3, wherein the first external structure tapers from a topportion to a bottom portion.
 5. The enteral syringe of claim 4, whereinthe first external structure is funnel shaped.
 6. The enteral syringe ofclaim 3, wherein the first external structure is tube shaped.
 7. Theenteral syringe of claim 3, wherein the first external structure furthercomprises a puncture structure including: a base; a pointed protrusionextending upward from the base; an opening formed in the base and influid communication with the first side opening.
 8. The enteral syringeof claim 1, further comprising a filter element positioned in the firstside opening.
 9. The enteral syringe of claim 3, further comprising afilter element positioned in a flow path extending between the firstexternal structure, the first side opening and the central cavity. 10.The enteral syringe of claim 3, further comprising a lid attached to atop of the first external structure and movable between a first positionin which the first side opening is exposed and a second position inwhich the first side opening is covered.
 11. The enteral syringe ofclaim 10, wherein the lid further comprises a hydrophobic filter. 12.The enteral syringe of claim 2, wherein the proximal end of the plungerremains outside of the barrel and includes a flat surface configured forcontact with a user's finger to aid the user in manipulating theplunger.
 13. The enteral syringe of claim 12, wherein the flat surfacefurther comprises a hanger opening configured to receive a protrusion tosupport the syringe.
 14. The enteral syringe of claim 12, wherein thedistal end of the plunger moves within the barrel and includes a sealelement.
 15. The enteral syringe of claim 14, wherein the seal elementengages an inner wall of the central cavity such that the plunger staysin place in the barrel when no force is applied by a user to theplunger.
 16. The enteral syringe of claim 15, wherein the seal elementis movable along the inner wall of the central cavity when the userapplies pressure to the plunger.
 17. The enteral syringe of claim 14,wherein the seal element is made of an elastomeric material.
 18. Theenteral syringe of claim 17, wherein the barrel is made ofpolypropylene.
 19. The enteral syringe of claim 1, further comprising aseal ring extending from an inner surface of an inner wall of thecentral cavity to mark the retracted position of the plunger.
 20. Theenteral syringe of claim 1, wherein a distal end of the barrel tapers inan area surrounding the first outlet.
 21. The enteral syringe of claim1, wherein a distal end of the syringe surrounding the first outlet isstructured for connection with an enteral tube.